C of E abuse inquiry

This collection of articles, reflecting different points of view, is for information and intercession. As we watch the inquiry into sexual abuse in the Church of England unfold, human sinfulness is laid bare, not just in terms of abuse, manipulation, blame-shifting and potential cover-up among Christian leaders, but also in anti-Christian prejudice evident in some of those conducting the inquiry. Much prayer and humility is required, since the witness of the Church to the Gospel of Christ is being harmed. It would be good if examples of truthfulness, courage and justice could be revealed, as well as the failures.

Are conservative evangelicals more likely to protect child abusers? By Mark Woods, Christian Today [Woods claims that distorted theology of forgiveness and the desire to protect members of one’s own ‘tribe’ might lead evangelicals to cover up child abuse. But the same could be said about individuals of catholic and liberal persuasion – so this is an example of how the inquiry is being used to smear those whose theology those in authority don’t agree with. Let’s hope there is less of that as the inquiry progresses, and more establishment of facts so that where crimes have occurred, lessons can be learned and justice can be done – Ed.]